Compositions and methods for treating hair

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are hair styling compositions comprising at least two latex acrylate polymers, wherein at least one latex acrylate polymer is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers. Methods of styling the hair are also disclosed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates to hair styling compositions comprising at leasttwo latex polymers, wherein at least one latex polymer is a film-formingpolymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents andplasticizers. The at least two latex polymers are chosen from acrylatepolymers. In various embodiments of the disclosure, the at least twolatex polymers are chosen to have certain properties. Compositionscomprising the at least two latex polymers and at least one componentchosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers may, according to certainembodiments, form films that have surprising properties. Methods ofstyling the hair with such compositions are also disclosed.

BACKGROUND

Compositions for styling the hair are known, such as, for example, hairspray compositions, hair gels and mousses, hair volumizing compositions,hair smoothing creams, lotions, serums, oils, clays, etc. The goals ofmany hair styling compositions include to hold or fix the hair in aparticular shape, to impart or increase volume of the hair, and/or tosmooth the hair, e.g. to decrease or eliminate the appearance of frizz.

Drawbacks associated with current products for styling the hair includethat the product is often sticky or tacky and/or often produces a filmthat imparts a sticky or tacky feel, and styled hair that is stiffand/or “crunchy” (i.e. the film is hard and brittle resulting in acrunching feel or sound when the hair is touched), which is undesirablefor most consumers.

Current products for styling the hair typically include water solublefilm-forming polymers. Depending on the chemical make-up of thesepolymers, they may be either soluble in water, or they may be waterinsoluble polymers which are made water soluble via various chemicalmodifications, such as neutralization. Solutions comprising thesepolymers tend to be viscous, i.e. as the concentration of the polymerincreases, its viscosity builds up rapidly. Translated to stylingapplications, as the solvent evaporates, the polymer solution becomesthicker on the hair surface, resulting in a sticky or tacky film. Theseproducts also tend to exhibit problems with product spreadability, hairmanageability, and low degree of humidity resistance which isparticularly a problem in hot and humid countries.

The use of latex polymers is also known, for example, to provideextended-wear properties to a cosmetic product (e.g. mascara, eyeliner,nail polish) into which they are formulated.

Some known compositions include one latex polymer. For example, U.S.Pat. No. 6,126,929 describes a composition comprising a dispersion of alatex film former, optionally with a plasticizer, and a non film-formingparticle not capable of being film-formed. U.S. Pat. No. 4,710,374describes a composition comprising cationic polymers, a surfactant, andan anionic latex. U.S. Pat. No. 7,740,832 describes a compositioncomprising at least one non-latex polymer and an anionic, cationic oramphoteric fixing polymer. U.S. Pat. No. 4,798,721 describes acomposition comprising a latex particle. U.S. Patent Application No.2005/0089490 A1 describes a composition comprising a water-dispersiblestyling polymer and a gel-forming polymer.

Other known cosmetic compositions include various components to provideimproved properties such as adhesion, flexibility, and compatibility ofother components. For example, U.S Patent Application No. 2007/0224140A1 describes a composition comprising a cosmetically acceptable medium,a non film-forming microsphere to provide adhesion, and a film-formingcomponent comprising two water-borne emulsion polymers. French PatentApplication No. FR 2 968 978A describes an eyeliner compositioncomprising at least two film-forming latexes and a plasticizer toincrease the flexibility of the film. French Patent Application No. FR 2898 050A describes a composition comprising a fatty acid ester, and acopolymer of a (meth)acrylate polymer and a hydroxyester (meth)acrylate.U.S. Patent Application No. 2009/0297467A describes a compositioncomprising at least one neutralized sulfonated polymer and mixtures ofacrylates and hydroxyester acrylates. U.S. Patent Application No.2009/035335 A1 describes a mascara composition comprising twowater-dispersible acrylate polymers, and a cross-linked polymericfilm-former to enhance the compatibility and bind the twowater-dispersible acrylate polymers. International Patent ApplicationNo. WO 2011/137338 A2 describes a composition comprising a acrylatedispersion and an acrylic film-forming dispersion. U.S. PatentApplication No. 2004/0071646A describes an aerosol device containing acomposition comprising a polyurethane dispersion having a particle sizeof from 0.1-1 μm, and at least one non-latex fixing polymer.

Additionally, some cosmetic compositions incorporate polymers having acore-shell structure. For example, U.S. Patent Application No.2003/0064045 A1 describes a mascara composition comprising a dispersionof particles having a core-shell structure. U.S. Patent Application No.2007/0286833 A1 describes a multistage polymer comprising a latexcore-shell particle comprising a soft polymer and a hard polymer. Inaddition, U.S. Patent Application No. 2009/0317432A describes anapplicator for makeup containing a composition comprising a colorant andat least one latex or core-shell latex particle.

Cosmetic compositions in a non-aqueous medium are known. For example,European Patent Application No. EP 1 082 953A describes a dispersioncomprising two film formers in isododecane. International PatentApplication No. WO11056332A describes a composition comprising threevolatile solvents, and at least one film former, for example siliconacrylate or acrylate, soluble or dispersible in at least one of thethree solvents.

Compositions for use in mascaras may have low glass transitiontemperatures (“Tg”) to obtain a soft film. For example, U.S. PatentApplication No. 2010/0028284 A1 describes a mascara compositioncomprising at least two acrylate film formers, where the glasstransition temperature (“Tg”) of the mascara composition is ≦20° C. U.S.Patent Application No. 2006/134043A describes a mascara compositioncomprising a fatty acid and at least one acrylate resin emulsion.

Some known compositions use solubilized polymers rather than polymerparticles. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,651,693 describes a compositioncomprising a solubilized blend of two polymers. U.S. Pat. No. 6,214,328describes a composition comprising at least one acrylate latex that issoluble in solutions containing low volatile organic compounds or inwater upon neutralization.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,441,728 describes a composition comprising awater-soluble fixative polymer and a latex particle. Water-solublepolymers tend to be sticky, and may not be suitable for applicationsrequiring a clean touch.

French Patent Application No. FR 2 834 458A describes a nail polishcomposition comprising two film formers in an aqueous medium in aspecific ratio.

However, it has now been discovered that by providing a compositioncomprising at least two latex polymers chosen from acrylate polymers,wherein at least one of said latex polymers is a film-forming polymer,and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents andplasticizers, it is possible to form a film on a substrate that hascertain desirable properties, such as a clean, natural, and/or“invisible” feel, and a lack of stickiness. Such compositions may beuseful in hair-styling applications wherein styling benefits such as anatural look, curling or straightening, and styling hold are imparted tohair

Moreover, compositions according to embodiments of the disclosure may beprepared that deliver a surprisingly broad range of hair stylingbenefits, such as, for example, from low to high style-hold andcurl-retention properties, for example by varying the weight ratiobetween both latex acrylate polymers, with or without additives.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The disclosure relates, in various embodiments, to compositionscomprising at least two latex acrylate polymers, wherein at least onelatex acrylate polymer is a film-forming polymer, and at least onecomponent chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers. In variousembodiments, the at least two latex acrylate polymers may be chosen tohave certain properties. In at least certain embodiments, the at leasttwo latex acrylate polymers are present in a combined amount rangingfrom about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, relative to the weight of thecomposition. In further embodiments, the at least two latex acrylatepolymers are present in the composition in a weight ratio of about 10:1to about 1:10.

The composition comprising the at least two latex acrylate polymers andat least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizersforms a film when applied to a substrate. In at least certain exemplaryembodiments according to the disclosure, the resulting film formed bythe composition comprising at least two latex acrylate polymers, whereinat least one latex polymer is a film-forming polymer, and at least onecomponent chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers, is clearand/or transparent.

In further embodiments, methods of styling the hair are disclosed, saidmethods comprising applying compositions according to the disclosure tothe hair. Such styling methods may comprise shaping, reshaping,positioning, repositioning, adding volume to, curling, or straighteningthe hair, in order to achieve a certain hair style or appearance.

Latex Polymers

According to various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, the atleast two latex polymers, at least one of which is a film-formingpolymer, are chosen from acrylate polymers. The at least two latexacrylate polymers may be present in a combined amount ranging from about0.1% to about 30% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.In other embodiments, the at least two latex acrylate polymers may bepresent in the composition in a weight ratio of about 10:1 to about1:10.

In various embodiments, the at least two latex acrylate polymers, atleast one of which is a film-forming polymer, may be identified aspolymer A and polymer B. Compositions according to certain embodimentsmay comprise at least one polymer A and at least one polymer B, whereinboth polymer A and polymer B are film-forming polymers. In additionalembodiments, the at least two latex acrylate polymers may be chosen frompolymers A, B, and C, wherein polymers A and B are film-forming polymersand polymer C is not a film-forming polymer. At least one of the latexpolymers is chosen to be a film-forming polymer, for instance, variouscombinations of A and A; B and B; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B,and C, and the like may be used.

In various embodiments, polymer A may be chosen from latex acrylatepolymers having a Young's modulus ranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; andpolymer B may be chosen from latex acrylate polymers having a Young'smodulus ranging from about 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, understress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about 5%. In at least certainembodiments, polymer A may have a glass transition temperature (Tg)ranging from about −90° C. to about 40° C., and polymer B may have aglass transition temperature (Tg) ranging from about 40° C. to about200° C. In at least certain other embodiments, the weight ratio ofpolymer A to polymer B in the compositions of the disclosure is fromabout 1:10 to about 1:1, from about 3:1 to about 10:1, or from about 5:1to about 10:1.

In at least certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, latexacrylate polymers A and B may be chosen such that polymer A comprises atleast one latex acrylate polymer that is a relatively soft, flexiblelatex polymer, and polymer B comprises at least one latex acrylatepolymer that is a relatively hard, brittle polymer, although suchcharacteristics are not required.

As used herein, a film-forming polymer is meant to include a polymerthat is capable, by itself or in the presence of an auxiliaryfilm-forming agent, of forming a macroscopically continuous film thatadheres to keratin materials, and preferably a cohesive film, betterstill, a film whose cohesion and mechanical properties are such thatsaid film can be isolated and manipulated individually, for example,when said film is prepared by pouring onto a non-stick surface such asTeflon-coated or silicone-coated surface. In addition, as used herein, anon-film-forming polymer is meant to include a polymer which will notform a film at ambient temperature or below, or in other words, willonly form a film at temperatures above ambient. For purposes of thisdisclosure, ambient temperature is taken as being below 40° C. such asin the range of 15° C. to 30° C.

By “at least two latex acrylate polymers,” it is contemplated that morethan two latex acrylate polymers may be chosen. Thus, for example, invarious embodiments, the composition may comprise polymers A and/or B,which are latex film-forming acrylate polymers, and the composition mayalso comprise at least one latex polymer C that is a non-film-formingacrylate polymer; and so on.

In further embodiments, the composition comprises exactly two latexacrylate polymers, at least one of which is a film-forming polymer.According to additional embodiments, the composition comprises exactlytwo latex acrylate polymers, both of which are film-forming polymers. Inyet further embodiments, the composition comprises at least two latexacrylate polymers, one or both of which are film-forming polymers, butdoes not comprise any additional film-forming polymers.

In at least certain embodiments of the disclosure, the at least twolatex acrylate polymers are provided in the form of aqueous dispersionsprior to formulating compositions of the disclosure. In variousembodiments, the aqueous dispersions may be obtained through an emulsionpolymerization of monomers wherein the resulting latex polymers have aparticle size lower than about 1 μm. In at least one exemplaryembodiment, a dispersion prepared by the polymerization in water of oneor more monomers having a polymerizable double bond may be chosen. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the aqueous dispersions obtained throughan emulsion polymerization may be spray-dried.

In other embodiments, the latex polymers are produced from condensationreactions between monomers and subsequently dispersed in an aqueousmedium.

Thus, the latex acrylate polymers may, in various exemplary embodiments,exist as dispersed polymer particles in a dispersion medium, such as anaqueous dispersion medium. The latex acrylate polymers may, in certainembodiments, each be dispersed in independent dispersion media. In yetfurther embodiments, the latex acrylate polymers may be dispersedtogether in the same dispersion medium.

The dispersion medium comprises at least one solvent chosen from water.The dispersion medium may further comprise at least one solvent chosenfrom cosmetically acceptable organic solvents. Cosmetically acceptableorganic solvents may, in various embodiments, be water-miscible, e.g.capable of forming at 25° C. a homogeneous mixture that is transparent,or substantially transparent, to the eye. For instance, cosmeticallyacceptable organic solvents may be chosen from lower monoalcohols, suchas those containing from about 1 to 5 carbon atoms, for example ethanoland isopropanol; polyols, including glycols, such as those containingfrom about 2 to 8 carbon atoms, for example propylene glycol, ethyleneglycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, andglycerin; hydrocarbons, such as, for example, isododecane and mineraloil; and silicones, such as dimethicones, cyclomethicones, andcyclopentasiloxane; as well as mixtures thereof.

In at least one embodiment, the solvent of the dispersion mediumconsists of water. In other embodiments, the solvent of the dispersionmedium consists of water and at least one cosmetically acceptableorganic solvent. In further embodiments, the solvent comprises water. Inyet further embodiments, the solvent of the dispersion medium primarilycomprises water. For example, the solvent of the dispersion medium may,in at least certain exemplary embodiments, comprise greater than 50%water, such as greater than 55% water, greater than 60% water, greaterthan 65% water, greater than 70% water, greater than 75% water, greaterthan 80% water, greater than 85% water, greater than 90% water, greaterthan 95% water, greater than 96% water, greater than 97% water, greaterthan 98% water, or greater than 99% water.

In embodiments according to the disclosure, the latex polymer particlesare not soluble in the solvent of the dispersion medium, i.e. are notwater soluble and/or are not soluble in the at least one cosmeticallyacceptable organic solvent. Accordingly, the latex polymers retain theirparticulate form in the solvent or solvents chosen.

In at least certain exemplary embodiments, latex particles according tothe disclosure may have an average diameter ranging up to about 1000 nm,such as from about 50 nm to about 800 nm, or from about 100 nm to about500 nm. Such particle sizes may be measured with a laser granulometer(e.g. Brookhaven BI90).

In various embodiments, the latex acrylate polymers may, independently,be neutralized, partially neutralized, or unneutralized. In exemplaryembodiments where the latex polymers are neutralized or partiallyneutralized, the particle size may be, for example, greater than about800 nm. In at least certain embodiments, the particulate form of thelatex acrylate polymers is retained in the dispersion medium.

In further embodiments, the latex acrylate polymers may be chosen fromuncharged and charged latex polymers. Thus, the latex acrylate polymersmay, according to various exemplary embodiments, be chosen from nonioniclatex acrylate polymers, cationic latex acrylate polymers, and anioniclatex acrylate polymers.

As non-limiting examples of latex acrylate polymers that may be used,mention may be made, independently, of acrylate latex polymers such asthose resulting from the homopolymerization or copolymerization ofmonomers chosen from (meth)acrylics, (meth)acrylates, (meth)acrylamidesand/or vinyl homopolymers or copolymers. The term “(meth)acryl” andvariations thereof, as used herein, means acryl or methacryl.

The (meth)acrylic monomers may be chosen from, for example, acrylicacid, methacrylic acid, citraconic acid, itaconic acid, maleic acid,fumaric acid, crotonic acid, and maleic anhydride. Additionalnon-limiting examples of (meth)acrylic monomers include C1-C8 alkyl(meth)acrylic, such as, for example, methyl (meth)acrylic, ethyl(meth)acrylic, propyl (meth)acrylic, isopropyl (meth)acrylic, butyl(meth)acrylic, tert-butyl (meth)acrylic, pentyl(meth)acrylic, isopentyl(meth)acrylic, neopentyl (meth)acrylic, hexyl (meth)acrylic, isohexyl(meth)acrylic, 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylic, cyclohexyl (meth)acrylic,isohexyl (meth)acrylic, heptyl (meth)acrylic, isoheptyl (meth)acrylic,octyl (meth)acrylic, isooctyl (meth)acrylic, as well as combinations ofany of the above.

The esters of (meth)acrylic monomers may be, by way of non-limitingexample, C1-C8 alkyl (meth)acrylates such as methyl (meth)acrylate,ethyl (meth)acrylate, propyl (meth)acrylate, isopropyl (meth)acrylate,butyl (meth)acrylate, tert-butyl (meth)acrylate, pentyl(meth)acrylate,isopentyl (meth)acrylate, neopentyl (meth)acrylate, hexyl(meth)acrylate, isohexyl (meth)acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylate,cyclohexyl (meth)acrylate, isohexyl (meth)acrylate, heptyl(meth)acrylate, isoheptyl (meth)acrylate, octyl (meth)acrylate, isooctyl(meth)acrylate, allyl (meth)acrylate, and combinations thereof.Additional and non-limiting examples include C1-C8 alkoxy(meth)acrylates, such as methoxy (meth)acrylate, ethoxy (meth)acrylate,propyl oxide (meth)acrylate, isopropyl oxide (meth)acrylate, butyl oxide(meth)acrylate, tert-butyl oxide (meth)acrylate, pentyl oxide(meth)acrylate, isopentyl oxide (meth)acrylate, neopentyl oxide(meth)acrylate. The esters may be, by way of non-limiting example, C2-C6hydroxy alkyl (meth)acrylates, such as hydroxy ethyl (meth)acrylate,2-hydroxypropyl (meth)acrylate, glycidyl (meth)acrylate, ethylene glycoldi(meth)acrylate, polyethylene glycol mono(meth)acrylate, 1,4-butanediol di(meth)acrylate, 1,6,hexane diol di(meth)acrylate, and anycombination thereof. The esters may be, by way of non-limiting example,aryl (meth)acrylates such as benzyl (meth)acrylate, phenyl(meth)acrylate, and any combination thereof. The esters can furthercontain amino groups such as aminoethyl (meth)acrylate,N,N-dimethylaminoethyl (meth)acrylate, N,N-dimethylaminopropyl(meth)acrylate, N,N-dimethylaminodimethylpropyl (meth)acrylate,N,N-diethyleaminoethyl (meth)acrylate, and N,N,N-trimethylaminoethyl(meth)acrylate; and salts of the ethylenic amines.

According to at least certain exemplary embodiments, the alkyl group ofthe esters may be either fluorinated or perfluorinated, e.g. some or allof the hydrogen atoms of the alkyl group are substituted with fluorineatoms. The monomers can also be fluorine-containing monomers, such as,by way of non-limiting example, trifluoroethyl methacrylate,2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropyl methacrylate, 2,2,3,3,4,4-hexafluorobutylmethacrylate, perfluorooctyl methacrylate and perfluorooctyl acrylate;and silicone macromonomers.

The amides of (meth)acrylic monomers can, for example, be made of(meth)acrylamides, and especially N-alkyl (meth)acrylamides, inparticular N—(C1-C12) alkyl (meth)acrylates such as N-ethyl(meth)acrylamide, N-t-butyl (meth)acrylamide, N-t-octyl(meth)acrylamide, N-methylol (meth)acrylamide and N-diacetone(meth)acrylamide, and any combination thereof.

The vinyl monomers can include, but are not limited to, vinyl cyanidecompounds such as acrylonitrile and methacrylonitrile; vinyl esters suchas vinyl formate, vinyl acetate, vinyl propionate, vinyl neodecanoate,vinyl pivalate, vinyl benzoate and vinyl t-butyl benzoate, triallylcyanurate; vinyl halides such as vinyl chloride and vinylidene chloride;aromatic mono- or divinyl compounds such as styrene, α-methylstyrene,chlorostyrene, alkylstyrene, divinylbenzene and diallyl phthalate, andcombination thereof. Other non-limiting ionic monomers can includepara-styrensulfonic, vinylsulfonic, 2-(meth)acryloyloxyethylsulfonic,2-(meth)acrylamido-2-methylpropylsulfonic acids.

The list of monomers given is not limiting, and it should be understoodthat it is possible to use any monomer known to those skilled in the artwhich includes acrylic and/or vinyl monomers (including monomersmodified with a silicone chain).

Silicone acrylic polymers may also optionally be used as vinyl polymerin at least one exemplary and non-limiting embodiment.

In at least certain, non-limiting exemplary embodiments, acrylic latexpolymers may be chosen from aqueous dispersions of MethacrylicAcid/Ethyl Acrylate copolymer (INCI: Acrylates Copolymer, such asLUVIFLEX® Soft by BASF), PEG/PPG-23/6 Dimethicone Citraconate/C10-30Alkyl PEG-25 Methacrylate/Acrylic Acid/Methacrylic Acid/EthylAcrylate/Trimethylolpropane PEG-15 Triacrylate copolymer (INCI:Polyacrylate-2 Crosspolymer, such as FIXATE SUPERHOLD™ by Lubrizol),Styrene/Acrylic copolymer (such as Neocryl® A-1120, DSM), EthylhexylAcrylate/Methyl Methacrylate/Butyl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid/MethacrylicAcid copolymer (INCI: Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Copolymer, such asDAITOSOL 5000SJ, Daito Kasei Kogyo), Acrylic/Acrylates Copolymer (INCIname: Acrylates Copolymer, such as DAITOSOL 5000AD, Daito Kasei Kogyo),Vinyl Acetate Acrylic Ester Copolymer (INCI name: Acrylates/VACopolymer, such as VINYSOL 2140, Daido Chemical) and AcrylatesCopolymers, such as those known under the tradename ACULYN™ 33 (DowChemical), under the tradename LUVIMER® MAE (BASF), or under thetradename BALANCE CR (AKZO NOBEL).

In various embodiments according to the disclosure, it may be possibleto choose a polymer that comprises both acrylate and polyurethane partsat the molecular level.

Coalescing Agents and Plasticizers

The compositions according to various embodiments of the disclosurecomprise at least one component chosen from coalescing agents andplasticizers. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed thatthe addition of coalescing agents and/or plasticizers may lower theglass transition temperature (Tg), decrease the Young's modulus, andincrease the strain of latex polymers and/or the films formed by latexpolymers. Further, the at least one coalescing agent and/or plasticizermay also be used to aid coating formation of the latex film to form acontinuous and homogeneous film or coating and to improve adhesion.While the lowering of the Tg of the latex polymers can result in asoftening of the film or coating formed by the latex polymers, it hasbeen found that the coating or film produced on hair treated with thecompositions of the disclosure surprisingly and unexpectedly imparts astrong styling hold to the hair while leaving the hair with anatural/clean feel and look. As such, the flexibility and stiffness ofthe resulting film or coating may be more balanced, and thus impart abetter style and stronger hold to hair.

Non-limiting examples of coalescing agents and/or plasticizers that maybe used according to various embodiments include glycols and theirderivatives, such as glycol ethers, for example, ethylene glycol,propylene glycol, diethylene glycol ethyl ether, diethylene glycolmethyl ether, diethylene glycol butyl ether, diethylene glycol hexylether, diethylene glycol dibutyl ether, ethylene glycol methyl ether,ethylene glycol ethyl ether, ethylene glycol butyl ether, and ethyleneglycol hexyl ether; glycol esters, such as diethylene glycol butyl etheracetate, propylene glycol dibenzoate and dipropylene glycol dibenzoate;cellulose esters, such as sucrose acetate; propylene glycol derivatives,such as propylene glycol phenyl ether, propylene glycol diacetate,dipropylene glycol butyl ether, tripropylene glycol butyl ether,propylene glycol methyl ether, dipropylene glycol ethyl ether,tripropylene glycol methyl ether and diethylene glycol methyl ether, andpropylene glycol butyl ether.

According to further embodiments, acid esters, for example carboxylicacid esters, may be chosen. Non-limiting examples include acetates, suchas glycerol triacetate; citrates, such as triethyl citrate, tributylcitrate, triethyl acetylcitrate, tributyl acetylcitrate andtri(2-ethylhexyl)acetylcitrate; phthalates, such as diethyl phthalate,dibutyl phthalate, dioctyl phthalate, dipentyl phthalate, dimethoxyethylphthalate, butyl phthalate, and 2-ethylhexyl phthalate; phosphates, suchas tricresyl phosphate, tributyl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate andtributoxyethyl phosphate; tartrates, such as dibutyl tartrate; andsebacates, such as dimethyl sebacate and dibutyl sebacate.

Furthermore, fatty acid esters, such as adipic acid esters, may bechosen. Non-limiting examples include diisobutyl adipate and diethyladipate. Stearic acid esters, such as ethyl stearate, and palmitic acidesters, such as 2-ethylhexyl palmitate, succinates, abietates,caprylates, caproates, enanthates, and myristates may also be chosen.

In further embodiments, the at least one component chosen fromcoalescing agents and plasticizers may be chosen from carbonates, suchas ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate; benzyl benzoate, sucrosebenzoate, butyl acetylricinoleate, glyceryl acetylricinoleate, butylglycolate, camphor, N-ethyl-o,p-toluenesulphonamide, and ethyltosylamide.

In yet further embodiments, oxyethylenated derivatives, such asoxyethylenated oils, may be chosen, for example, vegetable oil, castoroil, oils of natural origin, including non-drying oils and thosecomprising at least one fatty acid chosen from caprylic acid, capricacid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleicacid, ricinoleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid,gadoleic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, brassidic acid, cetoleic acid,lignoceric acid and nervonic acid. In at least certain exemplaryembodiments, the oils are chosen from triglycerides composed of estersof fatty acids and of glycerol, of which the fatty acids have variedchain lengths from C4 to C24 that can be linear or branched andsaturated or unsaturated. Non-limiting examples of oils includeheptanoic or octanoic triglycerides, groundnut, babassu, coconut, grapeseed, cottonseed, maize, maize germ, mustard seed, palm, rapeseed,sesame, soybean, sunflower, wheat germ, canola, apricot, mango, castor,shea, avocado, olive, sweet almond, almond, peach, walnut, hazelnut,macadamia, jojoba, alfalfa, poppy, pumpkinseed, cucumber, blackcurrant,evening primrose, millet, barley, guinea, rye, safflower, candlenut,passionflower, musk rose or shea butter oils or triglycerides ofcaprylic/capric acids. In yet further exemplary embodiments, the oilsmay be chosen from alcohols such as hexanol and benzyl alcohol.

In preferred embodiments, the coalescing agents and/or plasticizers thatmay be used in the compositions of the disclosure include propyleneglycol dibenzoate, available under the tradename, Lexfeel® Shine fromthe company Inolex, dipropylene glycol dibenzoate, available under thetradename, DERMOL DPG-2b from the company Alzo, and propylene glycolbutyl ether, available under the tradename, DOWANOL™ PnB from thecompany Dow Chemical.

It should be understood that mixtures of the above agents may be usedaccording to various embodiments.

Compositions

As described herein, exemplary compositions according to the disclosuremay comprise at least two latex polymers chosen from acrylate polymers,wherein at least one of the latex acrylate polymers is a film-formingpolymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents andplasticizers.

In certain embodiments, each of the latex acrylate polymers is presentin an amount ranging from about 0.05% to about 10% by weight, such asabout 0.1% to about 7.5% by weight, such as about 0.25% to about 5% byweight, such as about 0.5% to about 2.5% by weight, or about 0.5% toabout 1.5% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition,including all ranges and subranges there between. In other embodiments,each of the latex acrylate polymers is present in an amount ranging fromabout 1% to about 15% by weight, such as about 1% to about 12% byweight, such as about 1.2% to about 12% by weight, such as about 1.5% toabout 10% by weight, or such as less than about 10% by weight, relativeto the weight of the composition, including all ranges and subrangesthere between. In yet other embodiments, each of the latex acrylatepolymers is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 2% byweight, such as about 0.15% to about 1.9% by weight, or such as about0.18% to about 1.8% by weight, relative to the weight of thecomposition, including all ranges and subranges there between.

In certain embodiments, the latex acrylate polymers are present in acombined amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, such asabout 0.1% to about 25% by weight, such as about 0.2% to about 20% byweight, such as about 0.2% to about 15% by weight, such as about 0.5% toabout 10% by weight, such as about 1% to about 8% by weight, such asabout 1% to about 5% by weight, such as about 1% to about 3% by weight,or such as below about 30% by weight, or such as about 25% by weight, orsuch as about 20% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition,including all ranges and subranges there between. By way of non-limitingexample, the combined amount of latex acrylate polymers may be about0.1%, about 0.5%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%,about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%,about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%,about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, or about 30%, by weight,relative to the weight of the composition.

In yet further embodiments, the combined amount of latex acrylatepolymers ranges up to about 30%, such as up to about 29%, such as up toabout 28%, such as up to about 27%, such as up to about 26%, such as upto about 25%, such as up to about 24%, such as up to about 23%, such asup to about 22%, such as up to about 21%, such as up to about 20%, suchas up to about 19%, up to about 18%, up to about 17%, up to about 16%,up to about 15%, up to about 14%, up to about 13%, up to about 12%, upto about 11%, up to about 10%, up to about 10%, up to about 9%, up toabout 8%, up to about 7%, up to about 6%, up to about 5%, up to about4%, up to about 3%, up to about 2%, or up to about 1%, each by weight,relative to the weight of the composition. In at least one exemplaryembodiment, the combined amount of latex acrylate polymers is less thanabout 10% by weight, such as less than about 5% by weight, relative tothe weight of the composition.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the weight ratio ofthe at least two latex acrylate polymers, e.g. polymer A to polymer B,may range from about 10:1 to about 1:10, such as about 9:1 to about 1:9,about 8:1 to about 1:8, about 7:1 to about 1:7, about 6:1 to about 1:6,about 5:1 to about 1:5, about 4:1 to about 1:4, about 3:1 to about 1:3,or about 2:1 to about 1:2, including all ranges and subranges therebetween.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the weight ratio ofpolymer A to polymer B is about 10:1, about 9:1, about 8:1, about 7:1,about 6:1, about 5:1, 4:1, about 3:1, about 2:1, about 1:1, about 1:2,about 1:3, about 1:4, about 1:5, about 1:6, about 1:7, about 1:8, about1:9, or about 1:10.

In at least certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, when polymerA is chosen from latex acrylate polymers having a Young's modulusranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stressat 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; and polymer B is chosen from latexacrylate polymers having a Young's modulus ranging from about 10 MPa toabout 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about5%, different weight ratios of polymer A to polymer B may be chosen tocorrespond to different hair styling applications. By way of exampleonly, a weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranging from about 1:10to about 1:1 may, in some embodiments, provide a high level of stylehold; a weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranging from about 5:1 toabout 10:1 may, in some embodiments, provide a medium to high level ofstyle hold; and a weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranging fromabout 3:1 to about 10:1 may, in some embodiments, provide a light tomedium level of style hold.

According to various embodiments, the at least one component chosen fromcoalescing agents and plasticizers may be present in an amount rangingfrom about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, such as from about 0.1% to about10% by weight, or from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight, with respect tothe total weight of the composition. In at least one exemplaryembodiment, the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents andplasticizers ranges from about 0.1% to about 2% by weight, and in afurther exemplary embodiment from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, withrespect to the total weight of the composition.

In addition to the at least two latex acrylate polymers, wherein atleast one is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosenfrom coalescing agents and plasticizers, the compositions may furthercomprise at least one solvent. The at least one solvent may be chosenfrom water, at least one cosmetically acceptable organic solvent, or amixture of water and at least one cosmetically acceptable organicsolvent. Cosmetically acceptable organic solvents may, in variousembodiments, be water-miscible, e.g. a mixture capable of forming at 25°C. a homogeneous mixture that is transparent, or substantiallytransparent, to the eye. For instance, cosmetically acceptable organicsolvents may be chosen from lower monoalcohols, such as those containingfrom about 1 to 5 carbon atoms, for example ethanol and isopropanol;polyols, including glycols, such as those containing from about 2 to 8carbon atoms, for example propylene glycol, ethylene glycol,1,3-butylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, and glycerin;hydrocarbons, such as, for example, isododecane and mineral oil; andsilicones, such as dimethicones, cyclomethicones, andcyclopentasiloxane; as well as mixtures thereof.

The at least one solvent may be present in an amount ranging up to about95%, such as from about 1% to about 90%, from about 5% to about 80%, orfrom about 10% to about 60% by weight, relative to the total weight ofthe composition.

In at least certain exemplary embodiments, the latex polymer particlesare not soluble in the solvent of the composition, and thus remain inparticulate form even after evaporation of the solvent. For example, inembodiments where the composition comprises alcohol as a cosmeticallyacceptable organic solvent, the latex particles may remain inparticulate form upon evaporation of the alcohol, such as once thecomposition is applied to a substrate.

Compositions according to various embodiments of the disclosure mayfurther comprise additional components that are typically used in hairstyling compositions. Such components are known to those of skill in theart, or are within the ability of those of skill in the art to determinedepending on the particular application, such as, for example, theparticular component and/or amount thereof. Such components include, butare not limited to, thickening agents.

In various embodiments, the composition described herein may have a pHranging from about 2 to about 9, such as about 3 to about 8, or about 4to about 7.

In at least certain exemplary embodiments, the compositions are in theform of hair styling compositions, in any form, such as, for example, agel, a cream, a foam, a lotion, an emulsion, or a liquid that may besprayed onto or otherwise applied to the hair. In various embodiments,the composition may be provided in the form of a gel, a mousse, or aspray. In at least certain embodiments, the composition may be appliedto the hair by first applying to the hands, and then contacting the hairwith the hands; in other embodiments, the composition may be applieddirectly onto the hair, such as by spraying. The compositions may, invarious embodiments, be applied to the hair as a leave-on treatment.

In various embodiments, the application of an external stimuli, such asheat, may be desirable as part of the hair styling process. By way ofexample only, before, during, or after the composition is applied to wetor dry hair, the hair may optionally be further treated with an externalstimuli, for example with heat ranging from about 25° C. to about 250°C. In at least certain embodiments, the hair may also be shaped orpositioned as desired while exposed to external stimuli, such as whileheated or exposed to heat.

Professional and consumer heating tools can be used as a means todeliver heat or an elevated temperature to the hair. The heating toolscan generate heat through electrical current or heating lamps. Dependingupon the desired style, these tools include, but are not limited to,heaters, blow dryers, flat irons, hot combs, hot curler sets, steampods, heated crimpers, heated lash curlers, heated wands/brushes, andhood driers or their combinations thereof.

As described, compositions according to the disclosure may impart a filmon a substrate, such as on the hair or on the hand during or afterapplication to the hair. A film formed by the composition may,surprisingly, be clean-feeling and not sticky, as with traditional hairstyling compositions. Also surprisingly, the composition may impart afilm on the hair that leaves the hair relatively natural andclean-feeling, yet has a flexible coating, leaving little to no residue,allows the hair to be bouncy and springy with little to no frizz orflaking, may impart relatively high definition with individualizedcurls, style control, volume, and shine, and/or may allow for relativelylong-lasting hold and style memory. Furthermore, in at least certainembodiments according to the disclosure, the compositions are not stickyor tacky. A user of hair compositions according to various embodimentsdescribed herein may thus feel that the composition is not perceptibleor is “invisible,” yet still effectively style and/or hold the hair.Additionally, the compositions may have effective hair styling and/orhold properties, even in conditions of high, or relatively high,humidity. In at least certain embodiments according to the disclosure,the compositions may be quick-drying, which may allow drying and/orstyling time to be reduced, as well as further improve ease of stylingand curl retention.

Furthermore, as described, compositions prepared according to variousembodiments may provide for varying degrees of hold to be imparted to ahair style. By way of non-limiting example only, in order to obtain aspiky look to hair of a very short length, a high level of styling holdmay be desirable. Or, as a further non-limiting example, in order toobtain a flowing look or to maintain hair curls for hair of mediumlength or longer length, a light to medium level of style hold may bedesirable. By altering the weight ratio of the first and secondpolymers, it is possible to formulate compositions having high levels ofstyle hold, medium to high levels of style hold, medium levels of stylehold, or light to medium levels of style hold.

In at least certain embodiments, a film formed by the compositionsdescribed herein may be clear and/or stable. In such embodiments, phaseseparation and dramatic aggregation are minimized.

In addition, hair styled or treated with compositions according to thedisclosure may, in at least certain exemplary embodiments, behydrophobic, and/or may appear less frizzy and/or may be less prone tobreakage, relative to hair subjected to the same conditions but nothaving been styled or treated with a composition according to thedisclosure.

It should be noted, however, that compositions and films, as well ashair to which the composition or film has been applied, according to thedisclosure may not have one or more of the herein-referenced properties,yet are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.

Also disclosed herein are methods for styling the hair, said methodscomprising applying a composition according to the disclosure to thehair, either before, during, or after styling the hair. One or moresteps of treating the hair with an external stimuli, such as heat,before, during, or after the composition has been applied to the hairare also contemplated.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing description and thefollowing Examples are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not to beinterpreted as restrictive of the disclosure. Moreover, it should beunderstood that various features and/or characteristics of differingembodiments herein may be combined with one another. It is therefore tobe understood that numerous modifications may be made to theillustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devisedwithout departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodimentswill be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of thedisclosure and practice of the various exemplary embodiments disclosedherein.

It is also to be understood that, as used herein the terms “the,” “a,”or “an,” mean “at least one,” and should not be limited to “only one”unless explicitly indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, the useof “a surfactant” is intended to mean at least one surfactant.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers used in the specification andclaims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by theterm “about,” whether or not so stated. The term “about” as it modifiesnumbers herein is meant to indicate a difference of 10% or less from thestated number, such as 9% or less, such as 8% or less, such as 7% orless, such as 6% or less, such as 5% or less, such as 4% or less, suchas 3% or less, such as 2% or less, or such as 1% or less, in variousexemplary embodiments. Thus, by way of example only, in one embodimentwhere “about” indicates a difference of 10% or less, the phrase “about20%” is intended to encompass a range from 18%-22%. In another exemplaryembodiment where “about” indicates a difference of 5% or less, thephrase “about 20%” is intended to encompass a range from 19%-21%. Allsuch numbers within each specified range are hereby explicitly intendedto be included in the disclosure.

It should also be understood that the precise numerical values used inthe specification and claims form additional embodiments of thedisclosure, and are intended to include any ranges which can be narrowedto any two end points disclosed within the exemplary ranges and valuesprovided, as well as the specific end points themselves. Efforts havebeen made to ensure the accuracy of the numerical values disclosedherein. Any measured numerical value, however, can inherently containcertain errors resulting from the standard deviation found in itsrespective measuring technique.

It should be understood that compositions according to variousembodiments of the disclosure form a film when applied to a substrate.However, the various properties of the film described herein areintended to include any film provided by compositions according to thedisclosure, regardless of whether the film is attached or bonded to thesubstrate or not. By way of example only, once the compositions areapplied to a substrate and a film is formed, the film may subsequentlybe removed in order to evaluate properties such as strain and Young'smodulus.

EXAMPLES

The following Examples are intended to be non-restrictive andexplanatory only, with the scope of the invention being defined by theclaims.

Procedures

A. Procedure for Determination of Physical Properties of Films

Film Plating:

The latex film was obtained by allowing a 30 gram water solutioncontaining 4 grams of the latex polymer(s) to dry slowly in a 100 mL PFAPetri dish (100 mm diameter×15 mm height) at room temperature for atleast 3 days.

Film Measurement:

The latex film, with known dimensions (length, width, thickness), wasmounted on the Q800 Dynamic Mechanical Analysis from TA Instrument, andtested in a DMA Control Force mode. The stress/strain test was obtainedusing the following procedure:

Preload force: 0.001 N

Isothermal: 25° C.

Soak time: 0.5 minutes

Force ramp rate: 0.5N/min to 18 N

The test ended when the sample broke, 18 N force was reached, or maximumdisplacement was achieved (25.5 mm).

From the stress/strain curve, the Young's Modulus was calculated as theslope of the linear portion at about 0.01% Strain to about 1% Strain.From the stress/strain curve, the % Strain at the stress of 0.5 MPa wasalso reported.

A high Young's Modulus demonstrates a hard film, while a lower Young'sModulus represents a more elastic film. A high Strain demonstrates astretchy, elastic film, while a lower Strain represents a more brittlefilm.

B. Procedure for Determination of Mechanical Properties of Hair Treatedwith Latex Compositions

Hair Treatment:

A strip of regular bleached hair (from IHIP, 7 cm long, about 0.5 g ofhair) was treated with the latex solution (0.75 g of solution/g hair).The hair was combed through with a fine-toothed comb 10 times (10seconds) on one side and 10 times (10 seconds) on the other side of theswatch until the solution was uniformly distributed over the surface ofthe tress. The treated hair was immediately mounted on the textureanalyzer.

Hair Measurement:

Three-point bending measurements were conducted using a texture analyzer(Model TA-XT2, Texture Technologies Corporation) equipped with a hairmounting accessory as described in J. Cosmet. Sci., 53, 345-362(November/December 2002). The cantilever bending experiment consisted ofthe following sequence of steps: the hair tress was placed on a 2-pointof 4 cm width, and the probe, representing the third point, came down atthe middle of the hair tress and performed a 2-mm deformations of thehair tress. The testing protocol was:

Test mode=Compression

Pre-test speed=2 mm/sec

Test speed=2 mm/sec

Post-test speed=2 mm/sec

Target mode=Distance

Distance=2 mm

Count=10

Trigger type=Auto (Force)

Trigger force=1 g

After finishing 20 cycles of deformations (also referred to as“bending”), a plot of force as a function of time of 20 deformations wasgenerated. From the plot, the maximum force required for eachdeformation was determined, and the percent increase in the force fromthe initial force to the last force was calculated. This represents theincrease in the hold of the hair.

A new plot of the maximum force vs. time was then generated. From thatplot, a linear regression (R²) was performed and the linear equation wascalculated. The slope of the linear regression represents the degree oramount change of maximum force over time, referred to herein as“hardening rate.” The hardening rate is also an indication of the degreeof resistance of the hair or hair fibers to the maximum force applied tothe hair.

C. Procedure for Determination of Curl Retention in High Humidity ofHair Treated with Latex Compositions

Hair Treatment:

Regular bleached hair swatch (from IHIP, 14.5 cm long, about 0.5 g) wastreated with a solution of 2% latex polymers (0.5 g solution/g hair).The hair was combed until the solution was uniformly distributed overthe hair swatch surface. The treated hair was then rolled onto a spiralrod (0.5 in diameter) and allowed to dry at room temperature overnight.

Curl Retention Measurement:

The coiled hair was removed from the rod and placed in the humiditychamber at 95% RH, 25° C. for 24 hours. The Curl Retention wascalculated as:

(Lo−Lf)/(Lo−Li)×100

wherein Lo=fully extended hair length, Li=initial coiled hair lengthbefore humidity exposure, and Lf=final hair length after 24 hoursexposure

Compositions containing latex polymers were evaluated according to themethods described above. The weight of each latex polymer in thefollowing examples is determined on a dry weight basis.

Example 1 Evaluation of Effects of Coalescing Agents on Hardening Rate

Hair tresses were treated compositions comprising DAITOSOL 5000AD (INCIname: Acrylates Copolymer, Young's Modulus of 0.4 MPa and strain, understress at 0.5 MPa, of 150%) and FIXATE SUPERHOLD™ (INCI name:Polyacrylate-2 Crosspolymer, Young's Modulus of 1151 MPa and strain,under stress at 0.5 MPa, of 0.01%), or of ACULYN™ 33 (INCI name:Acrylates Copolymer, Young's Modulus of 2096 MPa and strain, understress at 0.5 MPa, of 0.01%) and VINYSOL 2140 (INCI name: Acrylates/VACopolymer, Young's Modulus of 2 MPa and strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa,of >200%), in a combined weight of 2% and at 1:1 latex polymer ratios,and 0%, 0.3% and 0.6% of DOWANOL™ PnB (INCI name: Propylene Glycol ButylEther (and) Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (and) BHT). The hardening ratesare shown in Tables 1A and 1B below.

TABLE 1A FIXATE SUPERHOLD:DAITOSOL 5000AD Sam- Coalescing Range Increaseple Agent Slope R² (g) in Force 1a   0% 0.3219 0.98 8.75-20.75 137% 1b0.3% 0.3412 0.97 8.29-21.03 153% 1c 0.6% 0.4057 0.99 8.83-24.04 172%

TABLE 1B ACULYN 33:VINYSOL 2140 Sam- Coalescing Slope Range Increase pleAgent (hardening rate) R² (g) in Force 1d   0% 0.3621 0.99 8.21-22.02168% 1e 0.3% 0.4515 0.99 7.46-23.71 218% 1f 0.6% 0.5045 0.98 7.45-24.58230%

These results show that when the coalescing agent is present in thecomposition containing the two latex polymers, the % increase in theforce required to deform or bend the hair and the hardening rates werehigher than those obtained for hair treated with a compositioncontaining only the two latex polymers.

These results also show that as the amount of the coalescing agents inthe latex solutions increases, the percent increase in the forcerequired to deform or bend the hair and the hardening rates increased.

Example 2 Evaluation of High Humidity Curl Retention

Hair swatches were treated with compositions comprising DAITOSOL 5000ADand FIXATE SUPERHOLD™, or of ACULYN™ 33 and VINYSOL 2140 in a combinedweight of 2% and at 1:1 latex polymer ratios, and 0%, 0.3% and 0.6% ofDOWANOL™ PnB. The high humidity curl retention results are shown inTable 2 below.

TABLE 2 Co- Curl Sam- alescing Reten- ple Latex (1:1) Agent tion 2aFIXATE SUPERHOLD:DAITOSOL 5000AD   0% 76% 2b FIXATE SUPERHOLD:DAITOSOL5000AD 0.3% 77% 2c FIXATE SUPERHOLD:DAITOSOL 5000AD 0.6% 83% 2d ACULYN33:VINYSOL 2140   0% 73% 2e ACULYN 33:VINYSOL 2140 0.3% 76% 2f ACULYN33:VINYSOL 2140 0.6% 80%

These results show that addition of the coalescing agent improves thecurl retention at high humidity at the hardening rates shown, comparedto compositions not comprising coalescing agents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A hair styling composition comprising at leasttwo latex acrylate polymers and at least one component chosen fromcoalescing agents and plasticizers, wherein at least one latex acrylatepolymer is a film-forming polymer, wherein the at least two latexacrylate polymers are chosen from: (a) polymer A, having a Young'smodulus ranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, understress at 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; (b) polymer B, having a Young'smodulus ranging from about 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, understress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about 5%; and (c) polymer C, chosen fromnon-film-forming latex acrylate polymers; wherein the at least two latexacrylate polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about0.1% to about 30% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition;and wherein the at least two latex acrylate polymers are present in thecomposition in a weight ratio ranging from about 10:1 to about 1:10. 2.The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two latexacrylate polymers are, independently or together, dispersed particles inan aqueous dispersion medium.
 3. The hair styling composition of claim1, wherein the at least two latex acrylate polymers are present in acombined amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight, relativeto the weight of the composition.
 4. The hair styling composition ofclaim 1, wherein the at least two latex acrylate polymers are present ina combined amount ranging from about 1% to about 5% by weight, relativeto the weight of the composition.
 5. The hair styling composition ofclaim 1, wherein the at least two latex acrylate polymers are present ina combined amount ranging from about 1% to about 3% by weight, relativeto the weight of the composition.
 6. The hair styling composition ofclaim 1, wherein each of the at least two latex acrylate polymers ispresent in individual amounts ranging from about 0.05% to about 10% byweight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 7. The hair stylingcomposition of claim 1, wherein each of the at least two latex acrylatepolymers is present in individual amounts ranging from about 1% to about15% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 8. The hairstyling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A topolymer B ranges from about 1:5 to about 5:1.
 9. The hair stylingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymerB ranges from about 1:3 to about 3:1.
 10. The hair styling compositionof claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B rangesfrom about 1:2 to about 2:1.
 11. The hair styling composition of claim1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B is about 1:1. 12.The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio ofpolymer A to polymer B ranges from about 1:10 to about 1:1.
 13. The hairstyling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A topolymer B ranges from about 3:1 to about 10:1.
 14. The hair stylingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymerB ranges from about 5:1 to about 10:1.
 15. The hair styling compositionof claim 1, wherein the at least one component chosen from coalescingagents and plasticizers is present in a total amount ranging from about0.1% to about 20% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.16. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least onecomponent chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers is present in atotal amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, relative tothe weight of the composition.
 17. The hair styling composition of claim1, wherein the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents andplasticizers is chosen from glycol ethers, glycol esters, sucroseesters, propylene glycol ethers and propylene glycol esters.
 18. Thehair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one componentchosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers is chosen from propyleneglycol dibenzoate, dipropylene glycol dibenzoate, and propylene glycolbutyl ether.
 19. The hair styling composition of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one solvent.
 20. The hair styling composition ofclaim 1, wherein the at least two latex acrylate polymers are chosenfrom: (a) polymer A, having a Young's modulus ranging from about 0.1 MPato about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of at leastabout 1%; and (b) polymer B, having a Young's modulus ranging from about10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of lessthan about 5%.
 21. A method of styling the hair, said method comprisingapplying a composition comprising at least two latex acrylate polymersand at least one component chosen from coalescing agents andplasticizers to the hair, wherein at least one latex acrylate polymer isa film-forming polymer, wherein the at least two latex acrylate polymersare chosen from: (a) polymer A, having a Young's modulus ranging fromabout 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, ofat least about 1%; (b) polymer B, having a Young's modulus ranging fromabout 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, ofless than about 5%; and (c) polymer C, chosen from non-film-forminglatex acrylate polymers; wherein the at least two latex acrylatepolymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 0.1% toabout 30% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition; andwherein the at least two latex acrylate polymers are present in thecomposition in a weight ratio ranging from about 10:1 to about 1:10. 22.The method according to claim 21, further comprising a step of treatingthe hair with heat at a temperature ranging from about 25° C. to about250° C. before, during, or after the application of said composition.